Detailed examination of the sclera, anterior segment (cornea, anterior chamber, ciliary body, iris), lens, and anterior vitreous is best done with a slit lamp. Although direct ophthalmoscopy can be used to examine the lens and posterior structures of the eye, indirect ophthalmoscopy, usually done by an ophthalmologist, provides a more detailed view of these structures. Indications for indirect ophthalmoscopy include clinical suspicion of traumatic cataracts, vitreous abnormalities (eg, hemorrhage, foreign body), and retinal abnormalities; clinical suspicion may be based on injury mechanism, absence of the red reflex, or retinal abnormalities (visible with direct ophthalmoscopy). Because direct and indirect ophthalmoscopy are best done through a dilated pupil, about 15 to 30 min before this examination, mydriatics (such as 1 drop of cyclopentolate 1% and 1 drop of phenylephrine 2.5%) can be instilled. If an intraocular or orbital foreign body or an orbital fracture is suspected, CT is done.

Use of eye guards, goggles, or special eyeglasses, such as those constructed of polycarbonate lenses in a wrap-around polyamide frame, is a simple precaution that greatly reduces the risk of injury.

MONDAY, June 29, 2015 (HealthDay News) -- Paraspinal fat infiltration correlates with high-intensity pain/disability and with structural abnormalities in the lumbar spine, according to a study published in the July 1 issue of The Spine Journal .
Andrew J. Teichtahl, M.B.B.S., from Monash...

Merck and the Merck Manuals

Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA is a global healthcare leader working to help the world be well. From developing new therapies that treat and prevent disease to helping people in need, we are committed to improving health and well-being around the world. The Merck Manual was first published in 1899 as a service to the community. The legacy of this great resource continues as the Merck Manual in the US and Canada and the MSD Manual outside of North America. Learn more about our commitment to Global Medical Knowledge.